Flame mahogany quarter grand piano serial number 11974. Straight strings, brass metals.
Mable John was a backup singer for Ray Charles' and the Raelettes. Her grandson Jesse, inherited the piano on her recent death. Ray Charles gifted her the piano before his death.
Hi Jessica,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
According to the Chickering website (http://www.chickeringfoundation.org/dating-your-chickering), this serial number dates this piano to circa 1851
A considerable portion of the value of this piano is based on it's connection to Ray Charles so some buyers will likely expect to see an affidavit attesting to its provenance. Currently, Chickering piano's are selling for between $500-1,500 at auction. It's always hard to say how much the provenance will impact a piece at auction but probably safe to say it would at least double the value and - to make the most of the provenance - will likely bring the highest result if it is sold in another auction with other Hollywood memorabilia.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
Ray Charles' antique Chickering mahogany quarter grand piano
serial number 11974, circa 1851
71 inches tall, 57 inches wide, 68 inches deep
CONDITION: appears to be in good structural condition; playing condition not warranted
PROVENANCE: given by singer Ray Charles to his backup singer, Mabel John, then by descent in John's family
$2,000-3,000*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
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